"Little One-Inch" - A story from Japan February 28, 2009

The Lakewood Cultural Center presents Tears of Joy Theatre

Little One-Inch: A story from Japan

By Leo Kominz

The Lakewood Cultural Center presents the Tears of Joy Theatre production of Little One-Inch at 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 28. Tickets are $12 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 3 - 12 and are available by calling 303-987-7845, online at www.Lakewood.org or at the Lakewood Cultural Center Box Office, 470 S. Allison Parkway (Wadsworth and Alameda). Student, senior and group discounts available. Free parking on site.

Little One-Inch, one of Japan's most beloved children's folk characters, is a tiny boy, no bigger than a person's thumb who sets off to find his fortune with only a rice bowl for a boat, a needle for a sword and a chopstick for an oar. In his adventures, he befriends a kappa, rides a koi, and becomes the playmate of a princess before defeating the ogre in a hilarious battle. Little One-Inch is performed using an adapted version of Japanese bunraku puppetry.

The mission of Tears of Joy Theatre is to produce, develop, and present puppet theater that celebrates the diversity of world cultures as well as to teach children and enrich their lives by helping them experience, create, and perform art with professional artists. The Tears of Joy Theatre is recognized nationally for its commitment to excellence and innovation. Three of their productions have received American puppetry's highest honor, the Citation of Excellence in the Art of Puppetry. Tears of Joy performs in theaters, community centers, festivals and schools throughout the United States and abroad to more than 250,000 people annually. In addition to an extensive touring program, Tears of Joy Theatre is a resident company at the Portland Center for the Performing Arts where it has given more than 100 performances.

The Lakewood Cultural Center 2008 - 2009 Performing Arts Season is generously supported by Aura Spa and Wellness Center at the Sheraton Denver West and the Rocky Mountain News - Closer to Home. Programs are made possible in part through funding from the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) – Metro Denver's unique commitment to its nonprofit art, scientific and cultural institutions, and The Gay and Lesbian Fund for Colorado - Supporting community nonprofits while highlighting the contributions of gay men and lesbians.